CAF Cancels Senegal's 2025 African Championship Title

RRI.CO.ID. Jakarta - The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has stripped Senegal of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title and awarded the trophy to Morocco. The decision was made after Senegal's players walked off the pitch and delayed the final in Rabat for 16 minutes in protest over the referee's decision.

The controversy began when the referee awarded a stoppage-time penalty to Morocco, which was seen as a crucial turning point in the game. Senegal's players were unhappy with the decision and staged a protest, delaying the game.

Morocco was awarded a 3-0 forfeit victory, handing them the Africa Cup of Nations title. The decision was made by CAF's appeal board, which upheld Morocco's appeal.

The match had been intense, with Brahim Diaz missing a crucial penalty for Morocco in the original game. Senegal had gone on to win the game in extra time, but the CAF ruling has overturned the result.

Senegal's President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, and Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, led the welcome-home delegation in the capital Dakar for the football squad. The politicians greeted the players and coaching staff before the team boarded a double-decker bus to present the trophy to fans gathered around the airport.

The team had been expected to celebrate their victory, but instead they were met with the news that they had been stripped of their title. The decision has been met with shock and disappointment in Senegal.

In Morocco, the decision has been met with jubilation. The team is set to play in Group C of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti.

The fallout from the decision continues, with Walid Regragui quitting his post as head coach of the Morocco national squad. He cited the need for a "breath of fresh air and a new vision" for the team.

Source: RFI.fr